Student Profile - Logan Shurtz

Logan Shurtz

Mentor: C. Munro Cullum, Ph.D., ABPP
Undergraduate Degree: Psychology
Undergraduate Institution: University of California, Los Angeles
Hometown: Thousand Oaks, CA

Research Topic: Neuropsychological Factors Contributing to Concussion Recovery

How did you become interested in science and/or research specifically?

I have always been naturally curious about how the world works. During my undergraduate education, this curiosity deepened as I engaged in a variety of courses that broadened my understanding of research and its role in advancing society. After graduation, I actively sought out opportunities to become more involved in research. I joined a lab focused on exploring the neurogenetic factors that influence development, which sparked a growing interest in the intersection of psychology and neurological development and maintenance. This experience ultimately led me to pursue a career in clinical psychology, and I am now continuing this path through doctoral training at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

Tell us about your research project and its relevance to human health.

Since beginning my training at UT Southwestern, I have been involved in multiple research projects examining the neuropsychological factors associated with concussion recovery. My work has focused on how psychological variables influence cognition and overall health following concussion, both in the short and long term. For my dissertation, I am exploring how concussion impacts an individual’s sense of self. Specifically, my project investigates the role of perceived resilience as a protective factor after injury, as well as how the experience of concussion and the recovery process may shape one’s self-perception and psychological well-being.

Why did you choose to come to UT Southwestern for graduate school?

I was drawn to UT Southwestern because of its reputation as a leading academic medical center, offering a wide range of training opportunities and serving a diverse patient population while standing out as a hub for extensive research across my areas of interest. The graduate program additionally aligned perfectly with my goals, providing a strong balance of clinical training and research development. After meeting faculty and students during the interview process, it became clear that UT Southwestern fosters a supportive, collaborative environment. The combination of rich opportunities and a community committed to student growth ultimately solidified my decision to pursue my education here.

In your opinion, what makes your specific program one of the top in the country?

UT Southwestern sits at the intersection of strong clinical expertise and robust research productivity. The institution offers a wealth of diverse training opportunities, supported by a highly engaged and dedicated faculty. Within the Clinical Psychology doctoral program, students benefit from a thoughtfully designed curriculum that allows for significant growth and accomplishment across the four years of training. The program emphasizes the development of well-rounded clinicians and researchers, offering comprehensive training across core areas of clinical psychology while encouraging students to pursue and cultivate their individual fields of interest.

What do you love about your program or why should a prospective student decide to get their PhD here?

I have continued to be impressed by the cutting-edge training offered through the Clinical Psychology doctoral program at UT Southwestern. The combination of rigorous clinical training and abundant research opportunities has supported my growth as both a practitioner and a scholar, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to the community and preparing me for the next stages of my career. I am deeply grateful for the comprehensive and high-quality training I have received, which has fostered significant professional development and equipped me with the skills and confidence needed for future success.

– Logan Shurtz